Starlight

Located on Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Arizona, Starlight is inspired by its mountainous desert context. The geology of the desert landscape; and the erosion which gives the surroundings its distinctive character become the basis for the sculptural representation of the building. The contouring metal roof, reminiscent of caprocks, formed slowly over time as water ran down the mountainside, washing away softer rocks and sediment. Beneath the caprock, the remaining solid, slanted mesa walls provide the areas for habitation and shelter from the demanding arid environment. Rammed earth walls further connect the architecture to the site, sliding out of the mountain and the strong cantilevering horizontal planes echoing the structural heroics of the rock formations. The primary space enjoys views across the paradise valley basin and back towards the mountain across a courtyard nestled into the rocky embankment. The materials which are drawn from their surroundings further integrate the design into the site with rammed earth formed from earth gathered on the site and the black metal representative of the solid rocky terrain tied together by the horizontal planes created with exposed aggregate concrete. The main entrance to the home is knitted into its surroundings as you arrive from the lower level. The entry experience is one of passing between a ravine as you are guided up a staircase with water lapping at the steps beside you. You arrive at the front door, where the earthy material pallet continues. You are welcomed by a framed view of the iconic praying monk; beyond the serene courtyard, the mass walls nudge you through to the home's primary living spaces. Throughout the home, that connection to the mountain can be felt as the house aims to integrate the indoor-outdoor experience seamlessly.